The mission of the Hertog War Studies Program is to educate advanced undergraduate students about the theory, practice, organization, and control of war and armed forces and to synthesize theory and practice with concrete, current, real world conflicts and crises.

Who may apply?

College undergraduates and graduates from the year in which the program occurs with a demonstrated interest in military history and security studies and a distinguished academic background are encouraged to apply! Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.75 and demonstrated interest in the subject matter. Students with a GPA below 3.5 will not be considered.

How can students apply?

Students can apply to the program via the Hertog War Studies Program Website (“How to Apply” page). Applications for the summer 2017 program will be available in late 2016 or early 2017.

Are nominations accepted for the Hertog War Studies Program?

Interested students may apply directly, without a formal nomination from their college or university, but must have a letter of recommendation from a faculty member. Recommendations can be submitted via email to [email protected]

What is the application deadline for the Hertog War Studies Program?

The deadline for submission of applications will be posted along with the summer 2017 applications.

How will students be chosen to participate?

The administration and staff of the Hertog War Studies Program will review all applications and make final selections. There will be phone interviews with all finalists before the final decisions are made. Evaluations will be based on each student’s faculty recommendation, personal statement, academic record, and résumé.

How many students will be chosen?

Approximately 19 students will be chosen for the Summer 2017 Hertog War Studies Program.

What are the program dates?

The exact dates for the Summer 2017 program will be posted along with the applications.

What does the program involve, exactly?

The Hertog War Studies Program is a 2-week program in Washington, DC. It will be comprised of lectures and class discussion with our permanent teachers as well as guest lectures by high-level military personnel. The program will also include a one-day staff ride to Gettysburg to visualize the battle and implement the knowledge that the students gain through the program.

What kind of work is expected from the participating students?

Hertog War Studies participants are expected to attend and participate in all scheduled lectures, discussions, and the staff ride. Students are also expected to complete the assigned reading prior to each class.

How much does the program cost?

All sessions are free of charge to Hertog War Studies Program participants. Participants will receive a subsidy to help cover their travel expenses to DC. The War Studies Program offers dormitory accommodations free of charge. Travel costs from the dorms to the classroom will be covered by the program as will all reading materials. Meals will also be covered by the program.

Each student will receive a $1,500 stipend to help cover any other expenses. In order to receive the stipend, students must attend all class sessions and complete all program requirements. Stipends will be sent to the participants’ home addresses after the program concludes.

Where will the program take place?

Classes will be held at the ISW office in Washington, DC. Hertog War Studies Program participants will be provided with housing in Washington, DC.

Who’s paying for all this?

All program costs are supported through generous donations from the Hertog Foundation.

Will students receive college-level course credit?

Unfortunately the Hertog War Studies Program cannot offer college credit for our participants.

Will students be able to attend other summer programs?

As long as the other summer programs do not conflict with the Hertog War Studies Program dates.

Are students required to stay in the dorms?

Yes, we expect students to live in the accommodations provided by the program. Failure to do so will result in a loss of stipend of $1,500.

Can former applicants who were not accepted re-apply for the 2017 summer program?

Yes, we highly encourage our former applicants to re-apply. The program is highly competitive and we tend to select upperclassmen.